Welcome
The Associates are proud leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs moving the Manitoba economy forward. Comprised of more than 370 senior executives, The Associates have been a driving force since 1982 advancing business education at the I.H. Asper School of Business. The Asper students are linked to the business community through mentorship programs, ongoing networking events and philanthropy. Giving back to the Asper School of Business and business community are the hallmark attributes of the Associates.
Message from the Associates Chair
Hardev Bains LLB, MBA, CFA
Chair, The Associates
President and Chief Investment Officer, Lionridge Capital
I am very honoured to serve as the Chair of the Associates of the Asper School of Business. The Associates is a unique organization among business schools anywhere. As far as we know, beyond the typical alumni associations (which the Associates is not) no other business school has a similar affiliated group of business leaders who have a mandate to support the school.
I’ve been privileged to be a part of the Associates for a number of years and have seen first hand the support we provide to the students of the Asper School. This support is not just in the form of monetary contributions, but also in the access we provide students to experienced members of our business community. Under the leadership of Dean Silvestre more emphasis is being placed on experiential learning. With the increased resources we can now provide with profits from the newly established Price Student Managed Investment Fund, we can significantly increase our impact in that area.
It’s also a two way street. Opportunities for members to interact with students and faculty are provided by way of participation in events such as case competitions, either as attendees or more active roles as judges or classroom speakers. Via these venues members get exposure to current trends in business and management theory and practice. The Associates also provide meaningful opportunities for its members to interact with fellow business leaders in a variety of events that are fun to attend and often informational or educational in nature.
Every year I note the milestones marked for people with membership tenures of 10, 20, 30 years and more, and see this as a testament to the enjoyment and satisfaction our members derive from being part of our organization. I look forward to working with the board, the school, our highly capable executive staff and all of our members to continue the progress and momentum of the Associates.
Hardev Bains
Message from the Dean
Dr. Bruno Silvestre
Dean and CPA Manitoba Chair in Business Leadership
The Associates have been a driving force in advancing business education at the I.H. Asper School of Business for almost 40 years. Providing philanthropy, mentorship and networking opportunities for our students, faculty and staff, this dedicated network of more than 300 senior executives fosters the development of our graduates who enter the workforce prepared to succeed in the ever-changing global economy.
As the flagship business school in the province, the Asper School of Business plays a significant role in the Manitoba economy and the Associates represent a vital component of our success. Thanks to such dedicated membership, the Asper School of Business will continue its reputation of excellence in business education, research and engagement in our community and society, and continue to be internationally recognized as a key developer of world-class business leaders.
Proud of Our Past
Founded in 1982 The Associates are guided by a core believe that a world class business school needs solid, on-going linkages to the captains of our business community. The Associates brings students, faculty and Manitoba business leaders together at informal gatherings, seminars, gala fundraisers and continued mentorship opportunities. We honour the beliefs of our founders in what we do every day.
“Having a world-class business school is very important to our city and province, so I am proud to have been actively involved in the Young Associates and Associates for the past 25 years.”
– Colin Ryan, Associates Chair 2018-2020
Andrew Stibbard, Chair of The Associates, with the Asper School of Business Commerce Students’ Association.
Making a Difference
The fundraising efforts of The Associates through the University of Manitoba Business School Foundation has contributed over $60-million dollars to the Asper School. An annual donation by The Associates is supported by thousands of in-kind contributions toward student mentor- ship, in-class presentations, student competitions and other events. Students have access to internships, part-time and full-time employment at some of Manitoba’s most prestigious companies.
“As a firm that is constantly growing, it’s imperative we have the right people, with the right skills and drive to assist us in achieving our vision. As one of the largest recruiters of I.H. Asper School of Business students, MNP recognizes the drive, intellect, and vision these students bring to our firm. Students help create and support our commitment to fostering an environment that promotes excellence in our profession and within our communities. The Associates helps my firm and myself stay connected.”
– Andrew Stibbard, CPA CA, Regional Managing Partner, MNP
“Each year we hire a number of students from The Asper School, as they provide us with a deep and diverse talent pool. The students are exceptionally talented, and they continue to add energy and passion to our work force. They are our future leaders.”
– Dean Schinkel, Managing Partner, Winnipeg Deloitte
The time, expertise and philanthropy of The Associates’ members has resulted in the I.H Asper School of Business becoming one of the leading business schools in Canada.
Shaping Our Future
What is next? As membership grows, so does the Asper School, offering more students an opportunity to achieve their goals. The over 360 industry leaders know an investment into the Asper School pays off with future economic growth in the province. The formula is simple: Gather the best and brightest from business, faculty and students to offer opportunities to succeed.
“We value our School’s long-standing relationship with The Associates. The support we receive from the organization’s dedicated network of business executives represents a key component of our continued success. The Associates’ generous philanthropic support, outstanding student mentorship and premier networking opportunities elevates the Asper School, supporting our commitment to providing a world-class business education to the next generation of leaders.“
– Dr. Bruno S. Silvestre, Dean and CPA Manitoba Chair in Business Leadership
Grounded in our past, making a difference now, the future is bright as The Associates continue to grow opportunities and leaders.